Indianapolis Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

As an Indianapolis hit-and-run accident lawyer, I understand the frustration, anger, and confusion that can come with being involved in a hit-and-run accident. When a driver flees the scene, they leave behind a trail of emotional and financial damage that can be overwhelming.

If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, I want you to know that we are here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal process and get the justice and compensation you deserve.

What Constitutes a Hit and Run in Indiana?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop and provide information or assist the injured party. In Indiana, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense.

Under Indiana Code § 9-26-1-1, drivers must stop immediately after an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage. Failing to stop and provide information or render aid can result in criminal charges, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the accident’s severity.

If the hit and run resulted in serious bodily injury or death, the responsible driver could face a Level 6 felony charge, which carries severe penalties, including jail time and hefty fines. Working with an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney in Indianapolis who knows the law and can fight for your rights makes it all the more important.

Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene?

Understanding why some drivers flee the scene of an accident can be baffling, but there are several common reasons behind hit-and-run accidents.

These include:

• Lack of insurance: Some drivers may not have the proper insurance coverage and fear financial consequences.
• Driving under the influence: Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs often flee to avoid DUI charges.
• Fear of legal consequences: In some cases, drivers may fear criminal charges for reckless driving, speeding, or other infractions.
• Unlicensed drivers: Drivers without valid licenses may flee to avoid penalties for driving illegally.

Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal and leaves the victim in a difficult position. As an Indianapolis car accident attorney, I work to hold these drivers accountable for their actions.

What to Do If You Are a Victim of a Hit and Run

Being the victim of a hit-and-run can leave you feeling helpless, but there are steps you can take to protect your rights and improve the chances of locating the at-fault driver.

Here’s what you should do immediately following the accident:

• Call the police: Report the accident to the authorities as soon as possible. The police can investigate the scene, take witness statements, and create an official accident report that will be critical in your case.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t think you are seriously injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Injuries like whiplash or concussions may not be immediately apparent but can have long-term effects.
• Gather evidence: If possible, take photos of the scene, your vehicle, and any injuries you’ve sustained. Also, try to get contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident or the fleeing vehicle.
• Contact a hit-and-run accident attorney in Indianapolis: It’s crucial to get legal representation as soon as possible. We can help guide you through the process, including working with your insurance company and pursuing all available legal options.

Vaughn Knows What You Are Going Through

You Don’t Pay Unless We Win

Time Is Not On Your Side After An Accident. Call Vaughn Wamsley NOW.

317-846-1080

Pursuing Compensation After a Hit and Run Accident

One of the most challenging aspects of a hit-and-run accident is the uncertainty of whether the at-fault driver will be caught. While law enforcement will investigate the accident, there is no guarantee that the fleeing driver will be found. However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.

If the driver is identified, we will pursue a personal injury claim against them to seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If the driver is not found, you may still be able to recover compensation through your insurance policy, specifically through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.

In Indiana, uninsured motorist coverage is required by law as part of every auto insurance policy unless the policyholder specifically rejects it in writing. This coverage is designed to compensate you when the at-fault driver either doesn’t have insurance or cannot be located, as is often the case in hit-and-run accidents.

When you work with our auto collision lawyer in Indianapolis, you can feel confident that we will thoroughly review your policy to determine the best course of action for your case.

Indiana Hit and Run Statistics

Hit and run accidents are unfortunately common across the country, and Indiana is no exception. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, hit and run accidents have been on the rise, with over 737,100 hit and run crashes occurring nationwide in 2020. In Indiana, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that there were 15,190 hit and run accidents in 2021, with many resulting in serious injuries and fatalities.

The emotional and financial toll of these accidents is devastating, but the right legal representation can help you rebuild your life. As an experienced Indiana accident lawyer, I have handled numerous hit and run cases, helping clients obtain the compensation they need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Common Injuries in Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening conditions. Some of the most common injuries we see in hit and run cases include:

• Whiplash: This soft tissue injury is common in rear-end collisions and can cause pain and stiffness in the neck and upper back.
• Head injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and skull fractures can occur in serious collisions.
• Broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and other bones may be fractured in a hit and run accident.
• Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life.
• Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma to the chest or abdomen can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, which may require emergency surgery.

The severity of these injuries can result in lengthy recovery times, missed work, and mounting medical expenses. Our goal as your injury attorney in Indianapolis is to fight for the maximum compensation available, so you can focus on healing.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating a hit and run accident claim on your own can be incredibly complex. From dealing with insurance companies to gathering evidence and proving liability, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. That’s why having a dedicated hit and run accident attorney in Indianapolis by your side is crucial.

We will handle all aspects of your case, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance adjusters and taking your case to court if necessary. Our experience and commitment to our clients ensure that you receive the representation you deserve.

How We Can Help

When you come to us with your case, you will find that we are committed to helping hit-and-run accident victims get the justice they deserve.

Here’s what we offer:

• Free consultation: We will meet with you to discuss the details of your case and provide you with a clear understanding of your legal options.
• No upfront fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
• Comprehensive support: From dealing with insurance companies to investigating the accident, we handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on recovery.
• Experienced representation: With years of experience handling hit and run cases, we know what it takes to achieve successful outcomes for our clients.

Contact an Indianapolis Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, don’t wait to take action. As your trusted Indianapolis accident attorney,  Vaughn A. Wamsley is  here to fight for your rights and ensure that justice is served.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the legal process to obtain the compensation you deserve.